Selling the Couch Melvin Varghese, PhD

As I’m moving back into clinical work, I’m compelled to do more clinical-related podcasts. Today’s session fits that bill as it delves into psychedelic psychotherapy, an area of clinical work that is exploding with interesting potential. There is a lot to navigate within this topic; join us to learn more!
Our Featured Guest
Keith Kurlander
Keith Kurlander is the co-founder of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute (IPI) and the co-host of the Higher Practice Podcast. The IPI is the largest training provider of clinicians in psychedelic psychotherapy. In this conversation, we explore psychedelic psychiatry, the drugs available for use, and the causes of the recent surge in this field. We also discuss the practical cautions and considerations for therapists. 
Keith's Website and The Integrative Psychiatry Institute
You’ll Learn:
A simple definition that helps us understand psychedelic psychotherapyCauses of the recent surge of interest in this field and a briefing on the history and current researchThe current mental health crisis is changing the landscape of mental health care!Right now is an opportune time for therapists to get on board with psychedelic psychotherapy and get their training.The differences between traditional talk therapy modalities and psychedelic psychotherapyA glimpse into the often uncomfortable intensity of a psychedelic psychotherapy sessionThe logistics of a psychedelic psychotherapy session around the length of sessions and payment/insurance parametersCommon psychedelic psychotherapy medications: ketamine, psilocybin, and LSDThe type of client who is well-suited for psychedelic psychotherapy
Resources
Want to launch your podcast?
Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
Mentioned in this episode:
Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind
If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

More is not always better. We often find that what we are chasing in our pursuit of success is not what we thought it was. Entrepreneurship for private practice clinicians naturally attracts many high achievers and recovering perfectionists, so we need to take a pause and periodically reassess and redefine what success looks like. Join us for a closer look at this important topic!
Our Featured Guest
Jeanetta Garrison, LCSW
Jeanetta Garrison is an anxiety therapist in private practice in Charlotte, NC. She is the perfect person to share insights into today’s topic. In this episode, Jeanetta shares a personal story about what she learned about money during her childhood, along with how we navigate our aspirations and what we go after to achieve success. We wrap up with a discussion of knowing what is “enough” and being cautious about who we follow after as mentors and examples. 
Crown Counseling & Consulting
You’ll Learn:
Common characteristics of entrepreneurs in private practiceJeanetta’s family story of how she learned about money from her upbringingHaving big hearts of service sets us up to allow boundaries to be crossedThe need for clarity in communication with clients about cancellations and no-showsChasing the proverbial “carrot” to reach successJeanetta’s advice: “Remember your WHY and center your head, heart, and spirit around it.”Think about your success in terms of what you are sacrificing for it!Navigating the ebbs and flows that are inherent in entrepreneurshipHow Jeanetta grounds herself with what is “enough” for her in her businessThinking about money in terms of what it symbolizes to us (“All money is not good money.”)
Resources:
Want to launch your podcast?
Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
Mentioned in this episode:
Thrizer
Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients!

First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator.

Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait post-deductible.

Thrizer covers the rest of your fees upfront and waits for reimbursement on their behalf! They also have a Superbill Uploads feature if you'd like to instead offer your clients a resource to manage their own superbills. They manage all claims end-to-end so you or your clients don't need to deal with any of the insurance stress.

Please visit the Thrizer link below and enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.
Learn More About Thrizer

One of the most common questions I’m asked is about the gear needed to begin podcasting. I will honestly admit that it’s a difficult decision when you’re just starting because you want reliable equipment that does a great job, but you are also hesitant to break the bank for it. As you progress, several factors complicate the choices of gear, such as how you conduct guest interviews and whether you have a co-host. In today’s session, I’m walking you through four common podcasting scenarios and the gear I recommend for each. All of this information is compiled in the Buying Guide found inside our Healthcasters course. 
You’ll Learn:
My gear setup as I started the STC podcast in 2015 with a teeny, tiny budgetMy advice for beginning podcasters: “Don’t go out and purchase all the gear I mention, but go with the basics as you focus on building and honing your storytelling and interviewing skills.”Four podcasting scenarios and the recommended equipment:1- A single host with solo episodes and guest interviews via the Internet.I recommend the Samsung Q2U dynamic mic, Koolertron mic shock mount, OnStage foam windscreen, pop filter, mic stand, and Rode PSA mic arm.2- A single host who interviews guests in person.In addition to the basic equipment in Scenario #1, I recommend a 2-3 camera set-up (very expensive!), Calendly to coordinate interviews, 2 tabletop stands/mic arms, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for recording, and XLR cables.3- Co-hosts who connect and interview guests via the Internet.I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host, along with a recording platform, like Zoom or Ecamm Live.4- Co-hosts who get together in-person to interview guests in person. This is a dream set-up, but it is very expensive and complicated. I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host and guest (Yes, that is at least three of everything!), along with the Rodecaster Pro (the Rodecaster Pro II or Pro Mini), 32 GB SD card, and XLR cables.My advice: “Start with a lean setup. My current gear costs around $5000, but I didn’t upgrade for several years when I started out.”Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business.
Resources:
Want to launch your podcast?
Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit



Mentioned in this episode:
Thrizer
Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients!

First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator.

Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait...

If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, you’ve realized that the process is intimidating. Just knowing where to begin and how to proceed pose big challenges. We are tackling this topic with today’s guest and uncovering the things nobody tells you about writing a book. Join us to get real and learn more!
Our Featured Guest
Raj Lulla
Raj Lulla is a StoryBrand Certified designer and strategist. He and his partner, Ben Lueders, are the co-owners of Fruitful Design & Strategy, where they “create and grow compelling brands.” Raj has spent the last few years writing a book called The Caring House, and he joins us to dive deeper into the book-writing process. He shares why he chose to write a fiction book, how he approached the publishing aspect, and the financial outlay for a project like this. We wrap up with Raj’s perspective on the things no one tells you about marketing a book and Raj’s best tips for anyone who wants to write a book. 
Fruitful Design and Raj Lulla
You’ll Learn:
Raj’s choice: fiction vs. nonfiction?Big questions to confront around the grief-processing journeyRaj’s idea for The Caring House as part of his personal healing processWriting to answer the question, “What is this book for?”Narrowing your purpose to the “most important thing”Understanding the publishing dilemma: a traditional publisher, indie/hybrid publishing, or self-publishing? Differences in the pitching/publishing process between a fiction vs. nonfiction bookFinancial considerations in the book-writing processDetails about the “print-on-demand” publishing option and the hard work required to market a self-published bookRaj’s advice to aspiring writers
Resources:
Want to launch your podcast?
Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
Mentioned in this episode:
Thrizer
Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients!

First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator.

Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait post-deductible.

Thrizer covers the rest of your fees upfront and waits for reimbursement on their behalf! They also have a Superbill Uploads feature if you'd like to instead offer your clients a resource to manage their own superbills. They manage all claims end-to-end so you or your clients don't need to deal with any of the insurance stress.

Please visit the Thrizer link below and enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.
Learn More About...

Podcast sponsorship is often seen as the “golden goose” of podcasting. We started working with sponsors on STC a few years ago, and they have generated over $95k to this point. However, I’ve learned that relying solely on sponsorships is not the wisest stance because your success rides the ebbs and flows of another company’s marketing budget. I’m very grateful for the sponsors who have worked with us, but I don’t want to depend on them for the main source of income for STC. Today, I’m sharing three ways you can make money from your podcast from Day One, without having to depend on securing sponsors down the road. Join me for a closer look!
You’ll Learn:
The increasing responsibility I feel to be a good steward in today’s podcasting environmentThree ways to make money from your podcast from Day One:One-on-one work–I share how to use analytics to pinpoint your niche and impact to specialize your focus and offerings. (I use and recommend Fathom Analytics.)Scalable work–This includes things you can continue to do for the next 8-10 years, like paid speaking engagements, coaching groups, therapy groups, writing books, and establishing a “private podcast” feed. Online courses–The time and energy investment comes on the front end, but they become an asset into which you can invite others.It’s best to view podcast sponsorship as “the cherry on the top” that may come to you, but not as the financial foundation to depend on from month to month.Our free podcasting workshop can help you launch your podcast! 
Resources:
Want to launch your podcast?
Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
Mentioned in this episode:
Thrizer
Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients!

First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator.

Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait post-deductible.

Thrizer covers the rest of your fees upfront and waits for reimbursement on their behalf! They also have a Superbill Uploads feature if you'd like to instead offer your clients a resource to manage their own superbills. They manage all claims end-to-end so you or your clients don't need to deal with any of the insurance stress.

Please visit the Thrizer link below and enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.
Learn More About Thrizer

Hosting a retreat sounds like a great idea, right? When you stop and think about all the logistical and financial details, that’s when many fears and questions come to the surface. Perhaps the biggest fear is whether enough people will pay for your retreat to make it a success. Join us as we dive into this topic with today’s expert guest!
Our Featured Guest
Megan Gunnell
In addition to being a business owner, author, and triathlete, Megan Gunnell is a Clinical Social Worker who has been hosting 1-day retreats, workshops and weekend/week long retreats for 20+ years.
She hosted her first one at a local community center–complete with harp music! From these humble beginnings, Megan’s retreats have evolved into weekend retreats and international retreats that started in 2012 in Costa Rica, Italy, France, and other places around the globe.
In this episode, we discuss why therapists find it so appealing to consider hosting a retreat, along with common fears related to the risk of hosting your first retreat.
Megan explains how to find suitable venues that offer 100% refund options and points out the important legal and logistical considerations. We wrap up our conversation by discussing retreat marketing, which is vital to the success of your retreat. Megan shares what she has learned along her journey as a retreat host. 
Megan's Website and Thriving Therapists ® Facebook Group
You’ll Learn:
Megan’s inspiration to expand beyond private practice into hosting retreatsMegan’s #1 lesson learned: Start small and grow later.The attraction of retreats? They are transformative spaces for people to pull away from everyday life and reinvigorate their passion and purpose.The major differences between private practice work and group retreats as income sourcesLegal considerations around liability, disclaimers, emergencies, etc.Megan’s low-risk tips for hosting retreats:Start small with a test audience and test venue with a half-day or one-day retreat.Look for 100% refundable venues through a certain date prior to the event.Do the math and “beta-test” your audience.Making your retreat a profitable ventureFinding 100% fully refundable venues—and why international properties are desirableMegan’s top marketing strategies for retreats:Be very clear about your intentions. (Who is this for, and what is the purpose?)Think about your runway. (Make sure it is long enough to “land the plane.”)Build a warm excitement with your audience around the date for open registration.Handling the cancellation or rebooking of your retreat with flexibility and transparency
Resources:
Want to launch your podcast? Check out our free podcasting workshop
https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop
Want to launch your online course?
Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
Mentioned in this episode:
Thrizer
Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients!

First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits...